Camellia Professor Charles Sargent

Camellia Professor Charles Sargent

Camellia ‘Professor Charles S. Sargent’ is a striking, time-honored camellia variety admired for its dramatic, deep crimson flowers. The semi-double blooms feature a lush arrangement of velvety red petals surrounding a cluster of bright golden stamens, creating a stunning contrast that illuminates the garden during the late-winter to early-spring season. Its blooms are large, eye-catching, and long-lasting, making this cultivar a standout centerpiece in shaded borders, woodland gardens, and foundation plantings. The glossy, dark-green evergreen foliage provides year-round texture and structure, allowing the plant to remain an architectural focal point even outside its blooming period.

A vigorous and resilient grower, ‘Professor Charles S. Sargent’ adapts well to partial shade and acidic, well-draining soil. It develops into a dense, upright shrub, providing both ornamental value and functional landscape use, such as screening or background planting. Its bold red flowers make it a favorite among collectors and a memorable addition to any garden seeking rich color during the cooler months. With proper care, this camellia rewards gardeners with reliable performance, abundant blooms, and enduring elegance.

Care Instructions

Planting

Plant in partial shade, protected from harsh afternoon sun. Set the root ball slightly above soil level in acidic, well-draining soil.

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist, watering deeply once a week during dry periods. Increase watering in late summer as buds are forming.

Pruning

Prune after flowering. Remove weak, dead, or crossing branches and lightly shape the shrub to maintain structure and promote airflow.

Pest Control

Monitor for scale, aphids, and spider mites. Treat early with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal problems.

Soil Tips

Use acidic, organic-rich soil with excellent drainage. Add mulch yearly to conserve moisture, regulate temperature, and protect shallow roots.